Thursday, August 25, 2022

CiV - the Center for Architecture + Design

251 Riverside Drive, Memphis

11:30am : : Doors & Catering Open

12pm : : Program

REGISTRATION REQUIRED

$25 AIA/Partner Advance* ($35 reg.)

$200 AIA/Partner Table of 8 

$35 Public Advance* ($45 reg.)

$15 Student Advance* ($20 reg.)

* Advance Registration ends: August 22, 5pm

Please note that we have implemented a tiered cost approach (Advance & Regular registration levels) to aid in proper planning.

1 LU (submitted for credit)

Blue Oval City 

Jeff Huffman, Tipton County Executive

In the fall of 2021 Ford Motor Company and SK Innovation announced that the Memphis Regional Megasite was chosen as the location of their new venture, Blue Oval City. They will build electric Ford F-150 trucks with a new technology. This is a $5.6 billion investment in West Tennessee and a commitment of at least 5,800 new jobs. The impact on rural West Tennessee is unprecedented. The Megasite Authority Board has been established to help the region plan for the growth expected in the area, and local leaders are meeting to make strategic plans. Blue Oval City will be constructed on 3,600 acres of the 4,100 site. With a development this size, proper community planning will assure that an influx of population and revenue will adapt to meet need. Architects and the construction industry are key to collaboration on the topics of structures for auxiliary services, housing, infrastructure (such as schools) and city sprawl risks. Beginning the dialogue between economic development entities and the construction industry will assure proper quality of life is preserved.

Learning Objectives:

• Learn about the announcement of Blue Oval City, the plans of Ford's SK Innovation and how it will impact area built environment growth.
• Understand the needs facing West Tennessee as they prepare for the growth that will come with the investment. The development of buildings, schools, infrastructure and so on is key for responsible growth.
• Understand the importance of strong infrastructure and maintaining the quality of life in the region’s communities.
• Learn how Ford is working with the education system to strengthen its future work force to accommodate the growth of population and the construction industry.